By Dan Sanchez

For outdoor enthusiasts who like the style and function of a tactical knife, but aren’t in the military or in law enforcement, the Gerber 06 FAST folding knife can be a practical choice. The name comes from Gerber’s Forward Action Spring Technology that gives this assisted opening knife the feel and speed of an automatic. The ambidextrous thumb studs on the blade only require a nudge past a slight detent (about ten degrees) before it springs into the open and locked position. Although it’s not quite as fast as an automatic knife, it doesn’t take long before you get used to it and enjoy the speed.

The lock mechanism and switch secures the blade in a locked position. Your thumb should be on the switch when pullling it out of your pocket.

The 06 FAST has a Tanto style, black non-glare, stainless steel blade with a Titanium oxide coating for added protection. With a serrated and fine edge, the blade can handle a variety of functions and is incredibly sharp. Essentially this knife is made for self defense, but if you’re like us you’ll also use it outdoors…just make sure it doesn’t get messed up. If you’re not into self-defense knives however, the 06 FAST is not for you.

We liked the black G10 nylon handle that has a tactical design, providing a solid ergonomic grip. Ball milled grooves also keep the knife from slipping out of your hands when wet or muddy. The pointed steel end can be used for breaking glass in emergencies, and has a hole for a lanyard.

The piston lock on the knife works flawlessly to keep the blade in the open locked position until you push up on the safety switch and close it. Our only beef with the 06 FAST is that when closed, the safety switch can easily slide into the unlocked position.

The 06 FAST has a tight pocket clip and a pointed end for breaking glass in emergencies.

 Without some kind of detent to keep the switch from moving, the knife can open when you are pulling it out from your pocket. This happened to us several times when the thumb studs caught on the stitching on our pocket. To solve the problem you need to get accustomed to grabbing the knife with your thumb on the ramp of the switch. Fortunately, it’s an easy technique to master and we had no problems once we got the hang of it.

Getting the knife into your pocket was also a challenge. The pocket clip was a little too tight, and you have to use your finger to pry it up a bit, before it slips into place. The clip can only be attached on right hand position with the tip up. So if you’re left handed, you’re out of luck. Aside from these things, the 06 FAST is a pretty cool, lightweight and formidable looking knife. It’s also a very inexpensive, retailing under $100.

While we’ve liked and have owned Gerber knives in the past, (back when they were made in Oregon) the bubble packaging and quality are not up to the expectations we’ve had of its past products. The 06 FAST however, seems to be quite a different change in direction. Although this knife is not made in the USA, it does bring back some of the reliability and quality that made the company a great choice for knife aficionados.  For more information, visit www.gerbergear.com

At 8.6-inches in length the 06 FAST has an ergonomic G10 nylon grip with grooves ball-milled into it. The Tanto blade features a fine and serrated edge combination.

By Dan Sanchez

Zion National park has an abundance of beauty mixed in with high-adrenaline outdoor activities. While you can rock-climb, canyoneer and backpack in the park, one of the most popular activities is to take a simple day-hike.

But for the Fresh Air Junkie, who wants a challenge, Zion’s most challenging hike is up Angels Landing. This hike not only puts your fitness levels to the test, it also challenges your mind. Located in Zion Canyon, the trail head starts at The Grotto shuttle stop, and proceeds across the north fork of the Virgin River.

A relatively short five-mile round-trip hike, it increases 1,488 feet in elevation and proceeds up the sides of the canyon walls where you can get a great view of the Virgin River below. At one point, the trail cuts into the sides of the sandstone walls to each Walter’s Wiggles, a tedious array of steep switchbacks that seem like they never end. Up to this point, the hike is completely paved and enters into shaded areas which are a great relief if you’re making the trek during the hot summer months, (June thru September).

Once you make it past the majority of the climb, you reach a resting point, Scout Lookout, that has two bathrooms. Most stop here for a well needed rest. But others proceed further up to the last 0.5 miles which is the most challenging. The trek up to the top requires scrambling over large rocks on a narrow wall that has 1,200 ft. drop-offs on either side. At various points on the hike to the top, you’ll have to let people come down before you’ll have enough room to keep climbing up. There are chains bolted into the sandstone on areas where you’ll need to hold on to gain your footing and move upwards.

The scramble up the steep and narrow ledge can seem tedious. We’ve seen people give up from the amount of steep climbing. But you’ll often find helpful people willing to give you a hand and encourage you to keep going.   

This is the last 0.5 miles up to the top of Angels Landing starts at the Scout Lookout where you see the two bathrooms. It then proceeds up the narro wall here, with a 1,200 ft. drop off on either side.

Once you’ve overcome your physical and mental anguish you’ll be greatly rewarded by the view at the top. Make sure to bring a camera and if you find it’s crowded, wait about 10-20 minutes as most will then make the trek back down; allowing you to get the show you want.

This hike is not for those with fear of heights, but once you’ve made it you’ll find it to be an exhilarating accomplishment. It’s also very important to have good hiking or trail shoes. People with sneakers can easily slip on the sandstone, making your hike on Angel’s Landing that much more dangerous. According to park Rangers, people have died or been injured on this and other hikes in Zion with exposed ledges. The key to safety is being prepared and to stay on the trail.

We used a pair of Five-Ten Camp Four approach shoes which allowed us to stick to the rock like Spider Man. It’s also imperative to take at least one-liter of water or more with you on this hike and plenty of trail snacks or energy bars. We guarantee that your leg muscles will be shaking on the way down.

Angel’s Landing will take you about four hours round trip so it’s a good idea to start early, as lots of people get on this trail. If you make it back down around noon, you can take the shuttle to the Zion Lodge, where you can have lunch under one of the enormous trees on the grounds. Afterwards, you can make your way to the Visitor’s Center and discover some of the other extreme hikes that await you in this park. For more information, visit www.nps.gov/zion.

With summer camping in full swing, the Eureka! Riner 40 sleeping bag offers roomy comfort without the added bulk

By Dan Sanchez

If you ever wanted a summer sleeping bag that can work in both a car camping and occasional backpacking trek, the Eureka! Riner 40 might be one to consider. This mummy style sleeping bag is cut differently to offer additional room inside the bag. Measuring “82 x 33″ this “hybrid” cut offers more shoulder and foot room, giving it the roominess of a rectangular style bag, but with a head warming hood and draw cord.

The Eureka! Riner 40 fits into a stuff sack that measures 14x7.5 inches. Photo by Dan Sanchez

At a carry weight of only 2 lbs., 8 oz, the Riner 40 is also lightweight and stuffs into a small compression sack (included) that measures 14″ x7.5″. This makes the Riner much smaller and easier to carry if your car camping trip also includes an overnight backpacking trek.

The sleeping bag is filled with the company’s Rteq micro insulation  that’s soft, dries quickly and stays warm. The bag’s outer shell is made from strong 50D Polyester rip stop, while the inner liner uses soft 75D peached Polyester and features a vertical S quilting. Also inside is a small pocket that’s perfect for quick access to your watch or cell phone…just in case you need to Tweet about your trip or check any messages in the middle of the night. The pocket uses a small hook and loop strip to keep it closed so don’t put anything in there that can easily slip out and get crushed while you sleep.

The bag features a nice, heavy-duty zipper and an anti-snag feature that works most of the time.

We liked the Anti-snag zipper stitch guard that prevents the heavy-duty zipper from snagging most of the time. If it gets real cold at night, you can pull in the draw cord and bundle up. We tested the Riner 40 towards the beginning of spring and although the temperature dropped to 20-degrees F., we managed to stay warm and comfortable with an extra layer of clothing.

The Riner 40’s extra room also makes it great when you turn on  your side. Most mummy bags turn with you, and you end up resting your shoulder or arm on the zipper. The extra width around the waist and shoulder areas of the Riner 40, allow you to turn and sleep on your side without the bag following your every move.

The Eureka! Riner 40 retails around $100, making it an affordable dual purpose bag that’s ready for any quick weekend camping or backpacking trip. For more information, visit www.eurekatent.com

A small pocket in the Eureka Riner 40 can hold a cell phone, watch and more. A nice feature for personal items you need access to.

By Dan Sanchez

Among Salomon’s  line of trail-running shoes,  the XT Wings 2 is one of the top performers for anyone who’s getting serious about the sport. The XT Wings 2 is not new, but it’s definitely made its mark with trail-runners who want to be competitive.

One of the reasons why the XT Wings 2 is considered a high-performance shoe, is its unique construction that combines the best of a real running shoe, with advanced stability and cushioning. Salomon’s AC Muscle 2, Agile Chassis System is made up of three sections that provide control, cushioning and energy return. This gives the shoe a true suspension-like ability that’s evident when running over uneven terrain.

We experienced this while running through a dry creek beds where our foot remained  flat, even though it was over various sized rocks. The more you run with the shoe, the more confidence you have with the ACS system. This in turn gave us a feeling we were improving our performance. Although we couldn’t determine if we were running any faster, it sure felt like we shaved a minute off our one-mile time because of the shoe’s light feel and stability.

The shoe incorporates a triple density EVA midsole that provides excellent cushioning and pronation control. The outsole features a true running shoe design, but with deep-set lugs that grip well and throw out mud and debris on every step. Inside, a molded EVA OrthoLite footbed cradles and provides a comfortable yet firm grip around our foot. We never felt like the XT Wings 2 was too tight or too loose, or that our foot was slipping inside the shoe at any time, even while trekking up or heading down steep hilsides.

Over the course of two months, we ran 4-6 miles every week with the XT Wings 2.  At 12 ounces, it’s as light as any high-performance running shoe, and its quick drying breathable mesh uppers kept our feet cool and dry. We also liked Salomon’s Quicklace system that requires a simple pull to tighten the shoes to a perfect fit and hold it in position. While at first, the laces would get loose over the first mile we trekked, the system seemed to work better the more we used it. Tucking the laces under a lip in the tongue is just like what’s used in real racing shoes, and the rubber toe cap offered good protection over rocky terrain.

After breaking in the shoes a bit, they provided a seemless transition from dirt to pavement. Salomon’s Contragrip outsole worked well in both areas and didn’t squirm or slip when we encountered wet pavement. Our test model was a bright X Orange and Autobahn Black, which makes the shoes stand out when you fly by other runners on the trail.

The shoes have a reflective detailing on the sides that increases your visibility at night. While there weren’t too many cars on the trails we  ran, some are shared by vehicles and mountain bikes. Without street lights, it’s good to to be seen where it’s dark.

The XT Wings 2 is available in both men’s and women’s sizes and retail around $110. While Salomon manufactures other trail running shoes designed for easy and mountain type trails, the XT Wings 2 is by far capable of handling most everything you might encounter from hard-packed dirt roads to high-alpine trails.

Gila Cliff Dwellings-New Mexico: Occupied at a time when living was easy…

Poised on the edge of the Gila Wilderness stand 700-year-old homes build into the sides of the cliffs that overlook this portion of southwestern New Mexico—the original condominiums, if you will. Once belonging to the Mogollon people of the Southwest United States, the Gila Cliff Dwellings are situated amidst the Mogollon Mountains and surrounded by the Gila National Forest.

Inhabited from around 1275 to 1300, the cliffs that make up the Gila Cliff Dwellings were formed by volcanic activity. Based on intensive study, archaeologists have discerned that in the five cliffs that constitute the Gila Cliff Dwellings, there were likely somewhere around 46 rooms. It is suggested that about 10 to 15 families lived in the Dwellings during the roughly 25-year period of habitation.

Though the Mogollon peoples’ stay in the cliffs was notably short, there is no discernible motive for their ultimate departure. However, their reasons for choosing the area to reside in are clear: “It’s right near the headwaters of the Gila River,” said Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument tour guide Garrett McAllister, “so you have three different forks of the Gila coming together.” Beyond that, the mesa above the cliffs and the Gila River provided ideal farmland, and the Mogollon peoples were able to hunt wildlife and gather berries. Further, as added protection, the thickly wooded wildlife area provided shelter for the families living in the cliffs.

Initial European contact with the site of the Cliff Dwellings didn’t even come until 1878, over 500 years after the dwellings had been

An entryway into cooking and living quarters of the Gila Cliff Dwellings.

abandoned. After being explored by a New Mexico emigrant, knowledge of the site became widespread and the Cliff Dwellings became a national monument. In the early 1900s, several mummified bodies were found around the Dwellings, further spurring interest in the site. Private collectors, however, took most of the bodies, and only one is housed in the Smithsonian Museum. This mummified body was discovered in 1912, when a burial ground was discovered and with it a mummified infant later named Zeke.

A site quite off the beaten path, the Dwellings are about 40 miles from their closest city, Silver City, New Mexico. Though not terribly far in terms of mileage, the trip from Silver City to this designated national monument is two hours each way, making it a four-hour trip, not including the ample amounts of awe-inspired gawking while at the cliffs.

The Cliff Dwellings are located in a designated wilderness area (in fact, the Gila Wilderness is the nation’s first wilderness area), which means that no obvious signs of human presence, including the intrusion of roads, are allowed on the landscape.

Corn storage on interior of Gila Cliff Dwellings, New Mexico.

Consequently, according to McAllister, the majority of structures that make up the cliff dwellings are exactly as they were when the Mogollon people built them in the 1270s. “About 80 percent of the structures here are original,” he said. Only at certain spots have recent reconstructions been erected, and the difference between the original structures and small spots of improvement is easily discernible to the attentive tourist. “If you look carefully enough, you can see what’s been reconstructed, so you can appreciate the difference,” said McAllister.

In addition to tours of the area, there is a museum near the Dwellings, located in the visitor center, that contains a number artifacts found at the site, as well as a plethora of information about the history and culture of the Dwellings and the Mogollon peoples.

Between the expansive Gila Wilderness and the Aldo Leopold Wilderness, which together with the Blue Range Wilderness make up the Gila National Forest, there are more than a thousand miles of hiking and endless other outdoor activities to make the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Park an enormous tourist draw. The slopes of the Mogollon Mountains provide ideal trails for enthusiastic hikers, as does the Gila River Canyon.

Five popular day hikes, though, are the most common for visitors to take part in, and each begins near the Cliff Dwellings or the Gila

Interior layout of house keeping features in Gila Cliff Dwellings, New Mexico

Visitor Center. Each hike covers different terrain, and there is a trail to suit hikers of every experience level who wish to see the expansive landscape of the Gila Wilderness. The shortest hike available is just under two miles and has very little elevation, while the longest is about eleven miles and reaches an elevation of 1,300 feet. A guided tour of the Gila Cliff Dwelling area is another option for visitors less inclined to hike on the more advanced trails: the daily “Trail to the Past” tours include a short, quarter mile hike to one of the smaller Dwellings.

Three campgrounds open all year round are also popular destinations within Gila National Forest. Two of the campgrounds, Forks and Grapevine, provide a distinctly primitive camping experience. With water only available from the Gila River, campers must be prepared to filter or chemically treat any water they use. Further, no tables or grills are provided. For visitors wishing for a slightly less rustic approach to camping, the two Scorpion campgrounds provide treated water, along with tables and grills. All three sites have vault toilets available and are free of charge, offered on a first come, first serve basis.

View of Gila Cliff Dwellings from approach trail. Click to enlarge.

Another popular hot spot for visitors are the nearby hot springs. There are several in the wilderness area, the most easily accessible being Lightfeather, a 20 minute walk from the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Park visitor center. The most popular hot spring, Jordan, typically appeals to the more eager hikers visiting the park, as it is a six to eight mile hike from the visitor center.

Outside of the Cliff Dwellings, a number of alternative activities are available to visitors in the Gila National Forest and the other two wildernesses of the area. Whitewater Canyon and Little Bear Canyon are both nearby and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding areas as well as extensive hiking opportunities. Similarly, Lake Roberts, though an artificial body of water, provides a popular day trip for park visitors.

In planning a visit to the Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument or the surrounding areas, tourists have the option of staying in Silver City or Deming for the duration of their visit. Both cities have a variety of lodging to choose from, and the distance to the Dwellings is roughly the same from both cities.

Weather in the park is very moderate, so park employees insist that any time of the year is ideal for visiting. The mild climate brings a

Looking out of Gila Cliff Dwellings to the south west.

rainy period between July and August, and moderately cool to cold nights during spring, fall and winter.

The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Park has special extended hours during the summer months. From Memorial Weekend to Labor Day, the main Cliff Dwellings trail is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the visitor center is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The rest of the year, the trail is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the visitor center is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

By Kimberlee Frederick

Photos: Rick Shandley

Wegner Swiss Army is indisputably one of the finest manufacturers of outdoor cutlery in the world. It isn’t really fair to compare them to those manufacturers of lesser quality knives: it isn’t really a contest. We have been especially pleased with the Wenger Ranger SAK line. The lines models range from the simple but elegant model 151 with a single straight blade to the recent “Mike Horn” model, which features every survival tool an outdoor knife should offer. So where does the model 179 fit in this spectrum of knives?

First of all, every Fresh Air Junkie ought to have at least one knife on them when out soaking up an experience. And the starting point for selecting an outdoor knife is Wenger. It can be a little daunting at first: do I buy just one knife, or one of each? The vast majority of the Ranger models are sold with black handles made from solid hard plastic. Each model differs in the product specifications such as straight blades, saw blades, can-openers and awls. They all are great companions for any hiker, camper, skier – any body in motion in the outdoors.

Wenger recently introduced a higher end line of Ranger knives labeled 75,78 and, of course, the Expedition 179. These models are

Atop Mt. San Jacinto, CA

redesigned versions of the Ranger with concept of ergonomics in mind. The most notable difference between these new models and the other Ranger SAK is that the handle features the “Evo Grip system.” The system includes multicolored SAKs which use a black grip non-slip rubber. The handle is rubber coated and molded to fit perfectly inside the user’s hand. The purpose? The combination of features provide greater comfort, safety and support.

We carried several different knives with us on our last trek up Mount San Jacinto. A couple of guys in our group scoffed at the idea that there could be a need for something more than a basic pocket knife. Other members always carry several different knives to be ready for any eventuality. The debate continued at various points over the day. On the ascent, we rolled the Ranger 179 in small patches of snow strewn across the trail. We got the handle wet and then tested using the knife on branches and rope. True to Wenger’s promise, the Ranger 179 refused to slip free from our grip. The black rubber on the EvoGrip repelled the moisture and provided solid traction at all four grip points. It was clear that Wenger’s description that the SAK was designed to be cradled perfectly by the human hand was not just hype: it really lived up to the claim. The skeptics in our group had to admit that the grip was far superior to the black hard plastic.

Wenger has tested its engineering in the Patagonia Expedition in which teams of four race through globe’s toughest terrain. The Ranger 179 is Wenger’s official race knife for the Patagonia Expedition and has been designed to aid the Wenger race team in every clime and place. The two closest models to the 179 in the Ranger series are the 75 and 78. These two cousins sport the EvoGrip as the 179, but differ in tool features. The model 78 offers all of the same tools as the model 179 with the exception of the main blade. The model 78 features a straight-edge blade while the 179 features a serrated/straight combination blade for increased versatility. Surprisingly, the model 179 has a lower price tag than the model 78.

The three models of knives share the majority of major features including a razor-sharp can-opener, an awl complete with sewing eye, a locking screwdriver, corkscrew, key ring, reamer, double-cut wood saw (which comes in handy in gathering firewood), and a 3.9” locking serrated/straight edge combination blade. The locking blade features a rivet at the top which allows for one-handed opening. As with all Ranger SAKs, the locking blade can be released by pressing the Wenger emblem embedded in the handle. The 75 model differs from the 179 in that it has traded the double-edge wood saw for a pair of spring loaded pliers at price of $10 extra. Shoppers must evaluate whether they intend on working more with metal or wood.

It can be quite overwhelming when researching the many options that Wenger’s Ranger SAK has to offer. Shoppers are forced to pit serrated blades vs. straight edge and saws vs. pliers. The Patagonia Ranger 179 offers a perfect blend of all the necessities for outdoor survival without slashing the wallet. It is perhaps the most complete and safest bargain of the EvoGrip Ranger line. The EvoGrip line runs roughly $15-$20 more than the standard Ranger line, however the system is proven to work. The consensus at the end of the hike up Mount San Jacinto was that the Ranger SAK 179 was a great choice for an outdoor knife, whether you carry one or several knives. Like a good handshake, it is all about the grip!

By Kevin Varner

We recently put the Vasque Summit GTX (MSRP: $200.00) to the test on an ascent to the peak of Mt. San Jacinto in the San Bernardino National Forest. Mt. San Jacinto scales more than 10,800 feet and is the second highest mountain range in the state of California. A boot named Summit ought to be up for the challenge. There were still patches of snow even in early June. The melting snow provided a myriad of surfaces to challenge the Summit GTXs features such as snow, ice, dirt, running water and mud.

We started out early in the morning and had all afternoon to enjoy the high country. The boots were noticeably heavier than common day hike shoes but were not overly heavy like some other models of boots. We weren’t in any particular hurry and took our time. The boots were already broken in as we had taken them on several small day hikes prior to our summit ascent.

The melting snow caused the streams to flow at full capacity, and we were eager to trudge through the running water and test the

Summit specific Vibram outsole design offers good grip and self-cleaning lug voids.

waterproof Gore Tech liner. The padded collars allow you to tighten the uppers and seal the boot without cutting off circulation. The tightened uppers also gave terrific support when crossing the uneven surfaces and prevented a rolled ankle when crossing a fallen tree in Wellman’s Divide.

Summit GTX was a bit difficult to lace and tighten at the base of the foot, but tighten very well at the upper portion along the ankle.

The padded insoles and inner nylon lining tend to contract inward making for a very snug fit around the foot. The perfect fit ensures that there is no slippage inside along the sole and reduces the chances of blisters. Many novice hikers dread the uphill ascent and relish the downhill descent. Many experienced hikers understand that the downhill descent can be much more brutal on the joints and there is a higher chance of developing blisters.

A loose fitting boot often causes blisters along the balls of the feet, heel, or toes on the downhill as the sole of the foot slides forward with each step. This can also put a great deal of strain on the toes as they slide forward into the toe of the boot. The reinforced rubber toe on the Summit GTX and the snug fit ensure that this slippage doesn’t occur and detract from a comfortable downhill descent.

During the breaking in period of the Summit GTX boots, there was a bit of slippage on the back of the heel on the uphill ascent. This slippage however disappeared after about a week of day hiking. An old trick to breaking in leather shoes is to stand in a running stream for a small length of time to soften up the rigid leather.

Note the thickness of the leather used on heel overlap.

Anyone who wears these boots will immediately understand that they were built for rugged durability rather than speed. Weighing 3lbs., 14oz., these boots are not intended for casual day hikes or a quick race to the top of the hill. Summit GTX boots are designed with the intent to support backpackers on extended trips through the rugged high-country.

Vasque features American tanned leather manufactured from SB Foot Leather in Red Wing, MN. The dark brown leather provides a stylish water resistant surface that withstands water, snow, sand, and mud. Leather is a proven and time old boot material for true mountaineers. The Vasque leather is thick, waterproof, and sturdy, giving the boot function and style.

The rigid ankle support decreases any pronation or supination and reduces the chances of twisting ankles on changing trail surfaces. Dual-density polyurethane soles are molded to fit any foot arch. The insoles are constructed from kinetic fiberglass and supply structural support and rigidity to the boot. Vibram has designed out soles specifically for this model of boot which provide traction on the most slippery of trails. These features of Vasque engineering ensure that ankles and arches are provided with the best possible support for balance, handling and weight distribution.

Vasque Summit GTX boots are a year round boot and can stay warm and dry in relatively cold conditions. The exterior of the boot is

Front view of Vasque Summit GTX boots.

waterproof leather and the tongue is sealed allowing users to trudge through water. The inner lining is made of nylon and Gore Tex which repel water and aerate moist feet. These features, coupled with an appropriate pair of boot socks, should ensure dry feet. Vasque boots also sport Dry-Tech contoured foot beds intended to promote air flow within the soles to provide cushioning and aeration.

These boots are intended for extended trips while carrying moderate to heavy loads.  Any person who has shouldered multi-day pack loads and tackled high-country trails strewn with granite rocks of every size understands the need for ankle support and a boot able to handle trail shocks of every kind. Vasque Summit GTX are certainly a worthy consideration for your next pair of backpacking boots.

By Kevin Varner

Granite Gear Nimbus Access FZ pack offers one of the most comfortable and capable backpacks available today. Comfort, we can report after several uphill battles with elevation and rocky trails, is a standout feature you won’t see in the literature. This is a light-duty one-to-three day backpack that molds itself to your torso.

This comfort level can largely be attributed to the three dimensionally molded pack frame made from composite materials engineered to flex in the zones along the spine. The flexibility of the composite frame allows the Nimbus Access FZ pack to move with your upper torso in a more perfect relationship. Yet the three-dimensional composite pack frame always returns, no adjustment needed, to its original shape. Granite Gear describes this composite core frame design as Framesheet Technology. What it means to us is a level of comfort that gives you confidence on the trail and under the weight of your equipment.

The other prime component of comfort is the harness system Granite Gear has designed into their products in general. This harness

Click this image to check out the Nimbus harness system. It fits and flex's with your torso. You're going to like the way you look!

system offers the wearer excellent padding in all the right areas from the shoulder harness to the hip belt.  It is not only the cushioning element of the harness system, but the design vision that determined how and where the harness system contacts the torso.  Pack load is evenly distributed across the back, so no one area feels the pack weight.

At an empty 4lbs, 9oz, the Nimbus Access FZ offers 3800 cubic inches or 62-liters of gear storage. Access to your gear is excellent. With a zip away front panel, and an inner compression-strap system, you can get to any part of your kit without unloading the pack. Three composite clip-fastener straps on the interior of the front zip away panel create a compression system that keeps gear from moving around on the trail and manages bulky items in concert with the compression straps on the exterior of the pack.

All fasteners and straps seem to be of ideal gauge and composite (nylon and plastic) materials to handle the Nimbus Access FZ pack rating of about 50 pounds. Even though it is a never ending quest to get your pack as light as possible, just the fact that you will need to carry a sufficient amount of water, even for an overnight trip, your pack is gonna’ weigh enough to rely on the straps and fasteners to keep the pack load secure. We found the compression strap and strap fasteners to be well positioned on the pack and very reliable.

Nimbus Access FZ is hydration compatible. That means the pack interior has a pocket and drinking hose exits built into the pack. Drinking hose exits are located on the upper left and right sides of the top of the pack. This feature accommodated a two-liter Camelbak hydration bladder on all trips, with no issues whatsoever.

Removable and roomy, the top storage compartment of the Nimbus Access FZ is convenient to un-snap from the pack and bring your valuables inside the tent. With an empty pack at the camp site, it’s more useful to take the top compartment off so when you go to re-pack, the primary body of the the Nimbus is easier to load up without the top compartment bobbing to one side or the other.

Nimbus Access with interior compression/access enclosure.

After several day trip hikes, we already had a sense Nimbus Access would be comfortable on the back. The tell-all experience is always actually getting on the trail – with your wilderness permit — and slugging your way into the high-country with an overnight destination and full-reliance on the gear in your pack. So with the pack loaded with approximately 45 pounds of gear and water, we ventured into the John Muir Wilderness of the Sierra Nevada for two nights. Getting back to the “comfort” comment at the start of this review, this trip became the defining occasion. With a rise-over-run in elevation that would cripple a sea-level donkey laden with only a child, the hike rose from the 7,500-foot elevation to right below timberline at about 10,000 feet elevation in a few miles. Terrain was typical Sierra Nevada with tons of rocky, dusty, sun –soaked exposure; enough to create a withering sensation even with no backpack on at all.

But here’s the thing; regardless of the trail conditions and the elevation, the Granite Gear Nimbus Access FZ backpack was never a

Full access to your gear is easy.

distraction in either comfort or load-carrying capability. Even at those times along the trail where a needed rest break — just leaning on my one trekking pole in the shade – did it occur to me to take the pack off! The fit and comfort of the Nimbus Access FZ was, in my experience, amongst the best. Unless there was a situation calling for dismounting the Nimbus to get something out of the pack, there was no compelling reason to take it off along the trail. Lack of comfort is usually the reason a backpack comes off while under way on a trail, and the Nimbus did not give us a reason. That’s perhaps the one thing most appreciated and valued about reviewing this backpack. Obviously when you take it off your back at the end of the day you are going to feel like a boneless chicken for about 45 minutes, but that’s a great feeling.

Removable and roomy, the top storage compartment of the Nimbus Access FZ is convenient to un-snap from the pack and bring your valuables inside the tent. With an empty pack at the camp site, it’s more useful to take the top compartment off so when you go to re-pack, the primary body of the the Nimbus is easier to load up without the top compartment bobbing to one side or the other.

This 3D suspension system, harness, and accessibility to you gear can be found in other Granite Gear backpacks of larger and less cubic inch capacity. Quality workmanship and functional design stood out with this Nimbus Access FZ, but it was the comfort that jumped out at us, on the first hike it went on. It’d be great to have a rain cover on-board the pack.  But nonetheless, we enjoyed full confidence in this cool blue backpack.

By Rick Shandley

Specifications

• Torso Sizes: Short | Regular
• Weight: 4 lbs 9 oz | 2.07kg
• Volume: 3800 Cubes | 64 Liters
• Suspension: Topoflex Internal Frame
• Load Capacity: 50lbs | 23kg
• MSRP: $279.95

Materials

• 70D Ripstop
• 210D Nylon Cordura Body
• Stretch Woven Pockets and front panel

At only 1 lbs. 5.9 ounces the Brooks-Range A2 Rocket Tent is a lightweight shelter that’s strong enough to  handle the elements.

By Dan Sanchez

Ultralight backpackers may feel comfortable sleeping under a thin tarp or “space blanket” but for those of us who like the security and safe-feeling of a tent, the Brooks-Range A2 Rocket Tent may be one of the best ways to shed some pounds from your backpacking excursions.

The A2 Rocket Tent is made from CT3b fabric which is extremely light weight and looks kind of like the same material used for space blankets. Unlike other tents made from nylon, the CT3b fabric is much lighter, yet incredibly strong and water resistant up to 5000+ mm of pressure. That’s enough to withstand a heavy rain storm at high altitudes. The fabric is also designed to retain heat in the winter and stay cool in the summer.  We liked the zippered vents, three of them, that allowed for plenty of ventilation control in hot and cold conditions.

Shown are the A2 tent in its small stuff sack, aluminum poles and aluminum stakes in their own sack.

The tent comes in it’s own stuff sack made from the same material, and when packed, it’s about size of a small coffee can.  We also used the A2 footprint which is also extremely light weight and has its own small stuff sack. We easily unrolled the tent onto the footprint to set it up quickly.

The A2 comes with or without poles. In the winter, it can be set up with your ski poles so you can save extra weight. It also comes with a probe extender, that can be attached to your avalanche probe so it can be used on the A2; saving you even more weight. In the summer, it uses three high-grade aluminum poles 8.5mm and 9mm, that easily fit into the sleeves to set up the tent without any problems.

Featuring an aerodynamic design, the A2 also has a reinforced guyout system to secure it in heavy wind conditions. An integrated vestibule also makes it great to store your gear and protect it from the weather.  We secured the A2 tent with the aluminum stakes and had plenty of room inside, (25.1 square feet) for two people to sleep comfortably and without feeling too crowded.

With 25.1 square feet and 38-inches of height, there's plenty of room in the A2 tent for two people.

Rolling up the A2 was a little more difficult. Although the light weight CT3b fabric folds easily, you have to really fold it tight to get it to fit back into the stuff sack.  As with any new tent, we suggest you assemble and disassemble it before your trip to gain some experience with it.

The Rocket Tent is also available in an S2 design for ski mountaineering. The difference is that the S2 floor doubles as an integrated rescue sled. It weighs 1 lbs. 10.9 oz. The Brooks-Range A2 tent with poles, weighs in at 2 lbs. 4 oz, which still makes it extremely light, reducing the load on your backpack. Because of it’s rugged construction and fabric, the A2 might be the only tent you would ever need for both summer and winter conditions. It retails around $600. For more information, visit www.brooks-range.com

The aluminum tent poles adds about another 1 lbs. to the tent, but are good to have for summer backpacking trips.

If you use the A2 in the winter on ski excursions, you can save weight by using your ski poles and this handy avalanche probe extender to use as your center tent pole. This makes the A2 a bit lighter to carry around.

If you’re like most novices who want to get into rock climbing, you have no idea how to turn your burning desire into a reality. Here are some helpful hints from someone who was introduced to the sport the hard way…through friends.

By Margo Talbot

Don’t get me wrong. Friends can be a wonderful way to get introduced to the sport of rock climbing. Their passion and enthusiasm may well be the very reason that you want to try this popular outdoor sport yourself. But not all rock climbing buddies are the same. If you are fortunate yours will patiently accompany you to the local gear store to buy your first harness, shoes, and chalk bag. They will take the time to explain the intricacies of the equipment, how each piece works and why you should trust it.

Five-Ten's Coyote Lace UP is an example of an entry-level shoe that can advance with you as you progress. The shoe features leather uppers with Stealth C4 rubber. Retails around $85. www.fiveten.com

They will be willing to forego their pet projects for the day, or weekend, and focus instead on your needs to begin on easy routes to get your ‘rock feet’. They will diligently watch you and give useful instruction on how you can better use your body.

If you have these kinds of friends in your life, then you are a lucky person and need read no further. If you have no friends who rock climb, or if you feel like you would just be holding them back on their one day off a month to recreate, here are my quick and dirty suggestions on how you can get yourself started.

Essential Rock Climbing Gear

The gear needed to rock climb can seem overwhelming to the beginner, but you need only three pieces of equipment to outfit yourself from head to toe. These are a helmet, harness, and rock shoes. The best way to inform yourself on these products is to go to your local climbing gear store and find the most helpful staff member you can. Grill them on the differences between various manufacturers’ gear, which range from the purely aesthetic, to the fit and performance. Make it clear that you are a beginner and want as much information on the products as possible. This is all very straightforward when you are talking about helmets and harnesses, but it gets a bit more complicated once you’re into trying on shoes.

This Petzl Elios helmet is a low-profile, light ABS plastic helmet that's easily adjustable and comfortable. The helmet can also be used for mountaineering and ice climbing. Retails around $65.95. www.petzl.com

A common mistake most beginners make is to listen to the staff member when they tell them that their rock shoes need to be so tight as to cause serious pain even while seated in the store. This is a complete fallacy, and has led to many an aspiring climber to having to buy a second set of shoes after their first time out at best, or to quit  this masochistic sport altogether from the get-go.  Sure, you want the shoes to be snug, but you also have to be able to walk around the store for at least five minutes before the pain makes you lose consciousness.

Your selection must also be a good all-around shoe, as there are many specialty shoes on the market. But how can you possibly choose a specialty shoe when you haven’t even climbed a specialty route yet? If you stick with the sport, you will eventually buy a second pair of more technical shoes for this application. But leave that for the future. Right now you need equipment that will work for what is happening at your current level.

You’ve Got Your Gear, What’s Next?

If you can’t find someone to go out on real rock with, try hiring a guide for the day. You’ll have the choice of having a one-on-one experience, which will cost you more but give you and your goals undivided attention. Or you can opt for the group experience, which saves you money and provides you with a social experience, as well as the potential for meeting other people new to the sport.

A third option, especially if it is in the off-season or unseasonably cold outside, is to go to an indoor gym. Whatever you choose, the beauty of instruction is that you get someone that is well versed in safety, has teaching skills, and can pick out your undesirable practices before they become bad habits that take a long time to break.

Become an Attractive Climbing Partner

So now that you’ve got your gear and you’ve had your introductory session with a friend or guide, it’s time to network. Start inquiring who in your circle of friends rock climbs, knows someone who does, or knows of a resource to lead you there. Go back to the indoor gym, socialize while you’re bouldering, and find other beginners who want to take to the crags. Become a conscious and attentive belayer.

A good harness doesn't have to be expensive. This Metolius Safe-Tech harness retails under $80 and is designed to help eliminate mistakes by beginners. An adjustable rise system makes it fit to your exact dimensions. www.metoliusclimbing.com

Do some sport-specific training for you arms, and more importantly, your fingers. In other words, make yourself an attractive climbing partner. Read books on technique and strength training. Take good care not to step on people’s ropes. Remember, desire creates your reality, and in this regard, you will be amazed at how many ‘coincidences’ will enter into your life. Seize these opportunities when they arise and before you know it, you’ll have too many offers and too little time to take them all up. The month before, you never knew a single climber. Now, after some proper socializing, you’ll wonder how you lived without this activity in your life.

At this point you are hooked. Your body feels more balanced on the rock and in everyday life, and you have one more healthy activity to indulge in when you’ve got time off from work. But be careful, many unsuspecting novices have gone on to give up everything they thought they wanted to pursue the intangible euphoria they experience when they leave the ground.